It is never too soon to start thinking about summer vacation trips. After all the snow we had this year it might even help you to push past the lasting effects of the winter time blues. Outside Magazine recently came out with 50 Great Family Adventures in the US. For those of you that might not have the time or budget to travel to other sections of the country there are seven great choices in the Northeast.
The lake at Lakes of the Clouds Hut looking toward Mt. Washington
Traveling hut to hut in the White Mountains of New Hampshire is one of the seven to make the Northeast list. What makes the hut system so great is that they are all a day hike apart. If you can get there in a day then you don’t need to extra weight of a tent. Your sleeping arrangements for the night will be in a bunk house. A mattress, pillow, and wool blanket are all provided for you. It is recommended that you bring a liner or your own sleeping bag though.
Another added bonus are the delicious meals that the hut Croo makes. After a day of hiking you are treated to a hearty, homemade meal. Not only does the Croo cook for you but they often provide entertainment. They also send you off in the morning with a good breakfast for another day of hiking. If you are lucky you may even catch a Croo member hiking up with a 100lb pack board filled with food and supplies.
On top of Mt. Adams looking down at Madison Springs Hut
The best part of the hut to hut hiking is the views you get and the memories you will make along the way. You will travel along the Appalachian Trail past lakes, waterfalls, and above tree line and stay at America’s oldest hut system. All of this can be done while just carrying a day pack on your back. Not needing to carry a tent and only having to bring lunch or snacks along is what can make this a great family trip. Together as a family you can hike light all while spending a few days up in the mountains.
To learn more about the AMC’s 125 year old hut system click here.
For the rest of the trips that made Outside Magazine’s list click here.
Map of the huts from www.outdoors.org
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